1998 BMW Z3 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1998 BMW Z3. (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 107 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW Z3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, both vehicles can yield 280 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4775 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
